National Drug Control Policy: Urging Parents to Discuss Addiction

The National Drug Control Policy Director is urging parents to talk to their children about the dangers of using and abusing drugs.

“Now more than ever, families must recognize early signs that children may be using drugs and take immediate action to protect them from the potential of a lifetime of drug-related consequences and harm,” said Gil Kerlikowske.

Kerlikowske cited a recent U.S. Department of Health and Human Services report that said 1 in 10 children between the ages of 12 and 17 used drugs in the previous month.

“Particularly troubling is a 17 percent increase in the rate of prescription drug abuse among young people aged 12 to 17. Prescription drug abuse is at record levels, attitudes about drug use are eroding and drugged driving is disturbingly common.”